ISLAMABAD — Pakistan has approved another shipment of sugar for international markets as the industry faces growing inventories ahead of the next crushing season.

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) approved the export of 200,000 tonnes of sugar following a proposal from the Ministry of National Food Security. The approval includes safeguards aimed at maintaining stability in the domestic market.

The decision comes as sugar producers seek greater access to overseas markets for surplus stocks.

The Pakistan Sugar Mills Association has separately called for permission to export at least one million tonnes, warning that excess inventories could create difficulties for mills as the 2026-27 crushing season approaches.

According to the association, Pakistan produced approximately 7.7 million tonnes of sugar during the 2025-26 crushing season, while carryover stocks added to total available supplies.

Industry representatives argue that exports could help mills manage inventories and generate foreign-exchange earnings. At the same time, authorities have continued to emphasize the importance of maintaining adequate domestic supplies and preventing excessive price increases.

The export decision therefore places the sugar industry between two competing considerations: reducing surplus stocks and ensuring sufficient availability for domestic consumers.

The upcoming crushing season will provide another important test for the sector as producers, growers and policymakers assess inventories, domestic consumption and international market opportunities.